Bernie Leadon - The Eagle Who Flew His Own Way

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In this episode we explore the remarkable journey of Bernie Leadon, the multi-instrumentalist and songwriter whose artistry helped define The Eagles’ early sound.

Often called the unsung hero of The Eagles, Bernie’s contributions — from intricate guitar and banjo work to his soaring harmonies — helped shape a sound that has resonated for decades.

From his early exposure to bluegrass and folk music in Minneapolis to his groundbreaking work in the West Coast country-rock scene, Bernie Leadon has remained a quiet but powerful force in American music.

In this episode, we follow Bernie’s path before, during, and after The Eagles, all the way to his most recent solo album, where he revisits the roots that first inspired him.

Bernard Leadon III was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, into a family that encouraged both creativity and education. While his father worked as an aeronautical engineer and his mother was a teacher, it was the sounds of bluegrass, folk, and country that truly captured young Bernie’s imagination.

By his teenage years, Bernie had mastered guitar, banjo, mandolin, and dobro, instruments that would become central to his career. After moving to San Diego, he immersed himself in the local music scene, connecting with influential figures like Chris Hillman and Gram Parsons, who would later become pivotal in the country-rock movement.

Before joining The Eagles, Bernie Leadon played in several key bands that helped define the emerging country-rock genre.

He worked with Hearts & Flowers, Dillard & Clark, and most famously, The Flying Burrito Brothers.

During this period, Bernie became known as a musician who could add texture and authenticity to any song. His instrumental versatility and collaborative spirit made him highly sought after, setting the stage for his next big move.

In 1971, Bernie Leadon joined Glenn Frey, Don Henley, and Randy Meisner to form The Eagles.

His influence was immediate. On the band’s debut album, Eagles (1972), Bernie’s mastery of the banjo, guitar, and mandolin was showcased on hits like Take It Easy and Peaceful Easy Feeling. His harmonies and songwriting contributions, including Train Leaves Here This Morning and Bitter Creek, helped define the band’s distinctive country-rock sound.

Bernie continued to shape The Eagles’ music on Desperado (1973), On the Border (1974), and One of These Nights (1975). However, as the band gravitated toward a rock-oriented direction with the addition of Don Felder and later Joe Walsh, Bernie felt increasingly disconnected from the evolving sound.

In 1975, after years of touring and creative differences, Bernie famously left the band, marking the end of an era for both him and The Eagles.

Following his departure, Bernie Leadon remained highly active in the music industry. He became a respected session musician, contributing to recordings by Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, Stephen Stills, Randy Newman, and many others. In 1977, he released his first solo album, Natural Progressions, blending his bluegrass roots with rock and folk influences.

Over the decades, Bernie continued to perform, collaborate, and record — he returned to The Eagles’ “History of the Eagles” tour in 2013.

Today, Bernie Leadon has returned with a reflective new solo album called "Too Late to be Cool" showcasing the depth and authenticity that have characterised his entire career.

In this episode, we talk about Bernie’s journey, his thoughts on music, and what it means to create art on his own terms. Bernie’s story is a testament to creativity, versatility, and staying true to one’s musical voice.

Whether you’re a lifelong Eagles fan, a lover of country-rock, or someone curious about the musicians behind the music, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and reflections. Bernie Leadon may not always have sought the spotlight, but his impact on American music is undeniable.